Rashmika Mandanna Set to Play Music Icon MS Subbulakshmi in New Biopic
The screen star promises total devotion to portraying the legendary singer in a major project launched by Kamal Haasan.
By Dee AlvarezPublished Updated 2 min read
Rashmika Mandanna is preparing for what could be the defining role of her career. The popular actress has officially stepped into the shoes of the legendary classical music titan and film artist MS Subbulakshmi for a grand new biographical film. The upcoming pan-Indian feature aims to chronicle the breathtaking life and musical heritage of the beloved cultural icon for modern cinema audiences across the globe. The monumental project was formally unveiled during a ceremonial event held to mark Subbulakshmi’s 110th birth anniversary. South cinema titan Kamal Haasan personally launched the movie, underscoring the massive cultural significance of the venture. His presence at the launch ceremony set an elevated tone for what is rapidly becoming one of the most eagerly anticipated cinematic releases in the region.
Who is directing the MS Subbulakshmi biopic Steering the creative direction of the biographical drama is filmmaker Gowtam Tinnanuri, who previously earned acclaim for his work on *Kingdom*. A powerhouse lineup of veteran producers is backing the project to ensure a grand scale, including industry figures Allu Aravind, Rockline Venkatesh, and Bunny Vas. Together, the high-profile creative team aims to deliver an authentic and visually stunning homage to the legendary singer. Appearing at the official launch event, Mandanna did not hold back her immense gratitude for securing such a monumental acting gig. She reflected on how profound it felt to represent a historical figure who continues to inspire millions of music lovers across generations.
What did Rashmika Mandanna say about her new role During her address, Mandanna shared that stepping onto the stage for the project felt like standing in a divine presence. She paid emotional tribute to the late artist on her milestone birth anniversary, stating that the entire team feels guided by Subbulakshmi's lasting spiritual legacy as they prepare to begin production on the film. The star committed to giving the performance her absolute all, promising fans and music purists alike that she will leave no stone unturned in her preparation. She pledged complete immersion and unwavering focus to properly capture the poise, talent, and immortal spirit of the revered musical legend on the big screen.
The backstory
Verified moments, in order.
Rashmika Mandanna: the breakthroughs, the split and the scrutiny
A Kannada debut opens the door. Telugu hits and Hindi roles widen her reach. Along the way, a broken engagement and a viral deepfake put her private life and public image under pressure.
Kirik Party starts the story
Mandanna makes her screen debut in the Kannada campus comedy Kirik Party, starring opposite Rakshit Shetty. The film becomes a commercial success and gives her an immediate foothold in cinema.
- Flashpoint
Telugu success—and an engagement ends
Chalo marks her Telugu debut, and Geetha Govindam pairs her with Vijay Deverakonda in a major commercial hit. Away from the screen, her engagement to Kirik Party co-star Rakshit Shetty ends; the pair had become engaged in July 2017.
- 2021-12-17
Pushpa takes Srivalli nationwide
She plays Srivalli opposite Allu Arjun in Pushpa: The Rise. The Telugu film's success across language markets, including its Hindi-dubbed release, takes her work to a much wider audience.
- 2022-10-07
Goodbye opens her Hindi career
Mandanna makes her Hindi-film debut in Goodbye, playing Tara, a daughter returning home after her mother's death. The family drama places her alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Neena Gupta, in a role far removed from Pushpa's Srivalli.
- 2023-11Flashpoint
A deepfake becomes a public flashpoint
A manipulated video placing Mandanna's face on another woman's body circulates online. She publicly condemns it, and Delhi Police register a case. The episode brings the use of deepfakes to target women into the national conversation.
- 2023-12-01Flashpoint
Animal brings a hit—and a fierce argument
She stars as Geetanjali, the wife of Ranbir Kapoor's character, in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Animal. The film becomes a major Hindi box-office success while its violence and portrayal of women draw criticism over misogyny.
- 2024-12-05
Srivalli returns in Pushpa 2
Mandanna reprises Srivalli in Pushpa 2: The Rule, again opposite Allu Arjun. The sequel becomes one of Indian cinema's highest-grossing films, extending her association with the franchise that expanded her national profile.
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People also ask
- Who is playing MS Subbulakshmi in her biopic?
- Actress Rashmika Mandanna will portray the legendary classical singer and performer in the upcoming biopic.
- Who is directing the MS Subbulakshmi biopic?
- The biographical film is directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, known for his directorial work on Kingdom.
- Who launched the MS Subbulakshmi movie project?
- Iconic actor Kamal Haasan officially launched the biopic during a ceremony celebrating Subbulakshmi's 110th birth anniversary.
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